Matt Di Angelo is expecting a backlash from the British public after scenes showing his 'EastEnders' character Dean Wicks sexually assaulting Linda Carter are aired

Matt Di Angelo is expecting a "punch" when his 'EastEnders' character becomes a rapist.

The 27-year-old actor has admitted he was uncomfortable when he was told by the writers his character Dean Wicks would sexually assault Queen Vic landlady Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) and although he eventually committed to the plot he is expecting a backlash from viewers when the episode airs next Monday (06.10.14) on BBC One.

He said: "If I have to get abuse on Twitter and a punch in the mouth I'm fine with that, as long as one person speaks out. I don't care if we get 100,000 complaints if it helps one person."

However, Matt is worried about being associated with such a heinous crime, adding: "Your face is recognisable as the character, so to be associated with that crime is tough. There are people out there who blur the lines between what's real and what's not."

Although filming the scenes has not been easy, Matt believes it is the responsibility of a show like 'EastEnders' to tackle tough storylines in a way that can help viewers who may have experienced the same thing.

He added: "I realised 'EastEnders' is an institution and with that great power comes a responsibility to address these kind of problems that women go through a lot."

In the wake of Dean's violent action, viewers will see Linda keep silent about the rape until it is revealed that is pregnant.